Similar to the apostles, we too take a new name and identity from God as we live out our recovery journey. Jesus gives us a new name—we are no longer “hopeless addicts” but “apostles of His mercy.” We submit to His leadership and no longer to the control of our addictive substance. And we share our experience, strength, and hope with all who need healing in our world.

Jesus sent the apostles out with the authority to drive out demons. He sends us to do the same. By the grace of God, demons of addiction, anger, fear, selfishness, and pride are driven out. To keep them out, we maintain a sincere devotion to the Virgin Mother through prayer, the Holy Rosary, and honoring her on various feast days throughout the liturgical year. The new year began with the Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God, so let us consecrate the year to her—that she may deliver all we do into the hands of her son Jesus who reigns gloriously in heaven. Through our prayer and recovery work, we become apostles who bring light and grace to those around us. We do this through our good works in recovery, attending meetings, our discipline of prayer, and working daily to overcome our character flaws as we draw closer and closer to God.

Reflection Questions

• Have you considered the meaning of your confirmation name? How has this name influenced your life under the guidance of the Holy Spirit?
• How have prayer, recovery work, and trust in God helped you have better relationships with others?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7 or Isaiah 55:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 57:2, 3-4, 6 and 11
Gospel: Mark 3:13-19

Reflection by Bill B.